Sweden
Last updated July 15, 2026
Composite GEFRI Score
Governance is strongest, while Human Capital remains a constraint
Sweden shows advanced readiness to meet the challenges and opportunities of education in a rapidly changing world (98th percentile worldwide). Most dimensions perform above global norms, and the system has clear capacity to scale future-oriented initiatives.
- Global percentile
- 98th
- Global rank
- #5
- Regional rank
- #2
- Viewing data for
Country profile
Sweden ranks among the stronger performers in GEFRI, but still falls short of the target-readiness threshold. Its strongest results are in Governance (90, 97th percentile), Innovation (78, 99th percentile), GEFRI Composite (77, 98th percentile), Infrastructure (73, 92nd percentile) and Human Capital (69, 98th percentile).
Dimension scores cluster tightly, showing the system operates with balanced readiness. High internet adoption enables broad participation in digital learning and innovation. Strong tertiary enrollment expands future talent pipelines and strengthens national innovation potential.
Strong R&D funding and a sizable research workforce keep the innovation pipeline active, supporting the system’s capacity to adapt. Policy and regulatory teams coordinate effectively, keeping reforms aligned and providing the stability needed for long-term educational planning. Girls outperform boys in secondary pathways, adding pressure to address male dropout risks.
Regionally, Sweden leads most clearly in Governance, sitting well above the peer average.
Areas with room to grow: School Access and Gender Parity (75, 66th percentile). These dimensions sit close to global norms and could accelerate quickly with targeted investment.
Most indicators are observed rather than imputed, so estimation uncertainty is limited.
Key insights
Ranks in the 98th percentile worldwide, placing the system among high performers.
Places 5th worldwide.
Holds a regional position of 2nd within Europe & Central Asia.
Scores range from Governance (89.9) to Human Capital (69.2), reflecting variation across dimensions.
Leads regional peers most clearly in Governance.
Regional peers: Europe & Central Asia
Composite GEFRI Score